Bridges

What are dental Bridges?

Dental Bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Abridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth in between. The anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and the false teeth are called pontics and can be made from different materials including: gold, alloys, porcelain or a combination of these.

What are the advantages for dental Bridges?

Bridges can:

• Restore your smile.
• Restore the ability to properly chew and speak.
• Maintain the shape of your face.
• Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth.
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

 

What can I expect when getting a dental Bridge?

During the first visit for getting a dental bridge, the abutment teeth are prepared for a crown to be places over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are made, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by a dental lab. Your dentist will make a temporary bridge to wear to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the bridge is being made.

During the second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be checked and adjusted, as necessary, to achieve proper fit. Once it fits properly the bridge is cemented into place.

Will it be difficult to eat with a dental Bridge?

Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge should actually make eating easier. Until you become accustomed to the bridge, eat soft foods that have been cut into small pieces.

How should I care for a dental Bridge?

It is important to keep remaining teeth healthy and strong as the success of the bridge depends on the solid foundation offered by the surrounding teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing and using an antiseptic mouthwash daily help prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Dr Chau will demonstrate how to properly brush and floss teeth. Keeping a regular cleaning schedule will help diagnose problems at an early stage when treatment has a better prognosis. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition is also important.